Introduction
Brown hair is always in style, but adding some highlights or balayage can take your look to the next level. Both techniques can add dimension, depth, and interest to your hair, but they create different overall effects.
Balayage vs Highlights: What’s the Difference?
Balayage is a freehand painting technique that creates soft, natural-looking highlights. The color is applied to the surface of the hair, rather than the roots, which results in a more subtle and blended look. Balayage is perfect for creating a sunkissed, beachy effect.
Highlights, on the other hand, are created using foil or plastic wrap to isolate sections of hair before applying color. This results in more defined, contrasting highlights. Highlights are a good choice for creating a bolder, more dramatic look.
Which Technique is Right for You?
The best technique for you depends on your personal style and hair goals. If you want a subtle, natural look, balayage is a good option. If you prefer bolder, more contrasting highlights, then highlights are the way to go.
Here’s a table to help you compare balayage and highlights:
| Feature | Balayage | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Technique | Freehand painting | Foil or plastic wrap |
| Effect | Subtle, natural-looking | Defined, contrasting |
| Best for | Creating a sunkissed, beachy effect | Creating a bolder, more dramatic look |
Choosing the Right Color
The color of your highlights or balayage should complement your natural hair color. For brown hair, warm tones like caramel and honey are always a good choice. You can also add some cooler tones, like ash or beige, to create a more dimensional look.
Here’s a table to help you choose the right color for your brown hair:
| Natural Hair Color | Balayage Color Options | Highlight Color Options |
|---|---|---|
| Dark brown | Caramel, honey, amber | Golden blonde, chestnut, copper |
| Medium brown | Golden blonde, caramel, honey | Light brown, honey, caramel |
| Light brown | Honey, beige, ash blonde | Platinum blonde, golden blonde, light brown |
How to Care for Your Balayage or Highlights
Once you’ve had your balayage or highlights done, it’s important to take care of them properly to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips:
- Use color-safe shampoo and conditioner. This will help to prevent fading and brassiness.
- Avoid heat styling. Heat can damage color-treated hair.
- Get regular trims. This will help to get rid of any split ends and keep your hair healthy.
Cost and Maintenance
The cost of balayage or highlights varies depending on the length and thickness of your hair, as well as the salon you go to. In general, balayage is more expensive than highlights. This is because it takes more time and skill to create a balayage look.
- Balayage: $100-$300
- Highlights: $75-$200
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between balayage and ombré?
A: Balayage is a freehand painting technique that creates soft, natural-looking highlights. Ombré is a technique that creates a gradual transition from one color to another.
Q: How long does balayage last?
A: Balayage can last for up to six months, depending on how well you care for it.
Q: Can I do balayage at home?
A: It’s not recommended to do balayage at home, as it requires a high level of skill and expertise.
Q: What’s the best way to style balayage or highlights?
A: Balayage and highlights can be styled in a variety of ways. You can wear your hair straight, curly, or in a bun.
Conclusion
Balayage and highlights are both great ways to add dimension and interest to your brown hair. The best technique for you depends on your personal style and hair goals. If you’re not sure which technique is right for you